Fanwood and Scotch Plains Youth Baseball Leagues Merge

The following information was provided by Fanwood Little League Baseball Scotch Plains and Fanwood Youth Baseball

Fanwood Youth Organized Baseball and Scotch Plains Fanwood Youth Baseball Association officially announce that the two leagues have reached a collective decision to merge and form a new youth baseball league called “Scotch Plains Fanwood Baseball League” (“SPFBL”), beginning in the Spring of the 2013 season.

The historic decision to merge was a joint decision of the Board of Directors of their respective leagues, who have been meeting over the past off-season to discuss a possible merger.  The new league is expected to have about 1,200 players next season, combining 110 years of baseball history for the community.   

The Scotch Plains Fanwood Baseball League will be a private, non-profit organization, comprised entirely of unpaid volunteers serving the youth of Fanwood and Scotch Plains in Grades Pre-K through 12.  The two existing presidents of both leagues will serve as co-presidents for the new SPF Baseball League and the new board of directors will be a combination of strong leadership from both former leagues.  

SPFYBA President Neil Kaufman issued the following statement, “We all are very excited about this new league and there is no doubt that it is the right thing for the kids of our community and the parents of both towns.  We now look forward to working together and focus on making 2013 a wonderful and successful season.”   

FYO President John Quinones made the following statement, “While there is much work to be accomplished, I am encouraged by everyone's willingness to participate in a process that will result in one stronger unified league.  Further, I am confident that the overriding decision will bring together the finest that both leagues have to offer and serve in the best interests of the players and families in Fanwood and Scotch Plains.  We are excited about the future of the new league.”  

Registration is expected to be open no later than November 30th, and will be accessible from either of the former leagues websites (fyobaseball.org and spfyba.org) while the new website is created.